Whether you're looking for a girls weekend, mother-daughter trip, solo escape, or couples getaway, Paso Robles might be just the place! After a solo road trip in 2020 and a girls weekend this last February, Paso has quickly become one of my favorite places and I already want to plan my next trip there!
The quaint town of Paso Robles is becoming more and more known for it's wine, but there's also great food + views. With it's location on the California's Central Coast, this makes for a great road trip stop, or if you're tight on time, you can always fly into SBP (San Luis Obispo). Below are my recommendations for places to eat, taste wine, where to stay, and other things to do:
Food + Drinks:
Kitchenette - great for breakfast/brunch/lunch. Located south of Paso Robles, and an easy place to stop if you're driving north or flying in/out of SBP.
Brunch - the name gives it away, but this is a great breakfast/brunch spot with a variety of delicious, healthy and traditional breakfast options made with local ingredients. *Note that they do not take reservations, so plan accordingly.
Spice of Life - if you're a tea lover like me, this is your place! They also have coffee and a small (but delicious) brunch menu.
The Alchemists' Garden - "we are a bar and restaurant manifested by dreamers to inspire creativity" - they're description just gets me. Can be a great dinner spot or night cap.
Tooth + Nail - combine lunch with some wine and enjoy your meal at a castle! The wine here was just ok, but the food was pretty good and it had a more atmosphere.
TASTE! - this was probably my favorite restaurant here! The craft eatery is family-owned and operated, and their "duo", "trio", or "quartet" menu options allow you to create your perfect meal.
Hatch - this wood-fired comfort food restaurant is a must on your visit to Paso Robles, especially if you're a meat-lover, (they also had some delicious vegetarian options).
Eleven Twenty Two - this hidden speakeasy is a little difficult to find, but it's rated one of the best cocktail lounges! And while it is a bit difficult to find, it fills up quickly so plan to either get there early or wait in line.
Negranti Creamery - what's a little vacay without dessert?! Negranti is family-owned and operated, crafting fresh, wholesome, and real ice cream (specializing in sheep's milk ice cream).
On my list to try: Fish Gaucho - Modern Mexican Cuisine, Red Scooter Deli - Voted Best Sandwich on the Central Coast, and Tin City - an evolving industrial makers market of food and drinks.
Wine:
Brecon Estate - I visited Brecon on both my solo trip and with my girlfriends. This is a small, boutique winery with some pretty solid wines.
Lone Madrone - I went here on my solo road trip and loved the eclectic vibe! Aside from regular tastings, they also offer a Vineyard Luncheon + Tour.
Hammer Sky - while we didn't love the wines here, and the service was less than desirable, the grounds and views (especially at sunset), make it worth visiting.
Austin Hope - one of my favorite wineries! This family-owned and operated (can you tell I have a theme?) winery has a great selection of wines, and the fun/variety of layouts make this a place I will come back to time and time again.
Justin - a pricy winery (tastings starting at $45), but absolutely worth it if you're able to splurge! Seriously, some of the best wine I've had. They also have a restaurant and inn.
On my list to try: DAOU - beautiful views and Bordeaux varieties, Booker - a certified organic vineyard with underground wine caves, Halter Ranch - stunning views! Their Defender Picnic and Pairing Tour looks amazing, Allegretto Vineyard Resort - this Tuscan-style resort has it all: incredible wines, delicious foods, beautiful views, a spa and horseback riding tour.
Things to do:
Country Bicycle Tour - ok so this still involves wine tasting 😉 this half day, moderately- easy bike tour includes a gourmet picnic lunch and stops at three wineries. There is also a full day tour option.
River Oaks Hot Springs Spa - sip + soak (or just soak), in one of their semi-private mineral tubs with a vineyard view! They also offer massages and other spa services.
River Oaks Golf Course - while the girls relax, the guys can play! Not to say that you can't do both, I'm just not much a golfer myself (hehe).
Sensorio Paso - light show/installation: Field of Light and Light Towers.
Places to stay:
Paso Robles has SO many cute places to stay! From boutique inns that are part of wineries (Hammer Sky, Justin, Allegretto etc.) to adorable Airbnbs. Check out my Best Airbnbs in Paso Robles blog, for what I think are the best Airbnbs for different budgets and sized groups.
I hope you enjoy Paso as much as I did! Cheers 🍷
Comments